
plate no. 1158
Albin Egger-Lienz, 1908
Recreating this painting will help students practice simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using a limited color palette to create a unified atmosphere. It also provides an opportunity to study figure drawing and composition in a historical context.
technical profile
approach — 8 steps
Lightly sketch the overall composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and key elements.
Establish the background color with a thin wash of burnt sienna and raw umber.
Block in the main shapes of the figures and flags, using simplified forms and basic colors.
Develop the figures' details, paying attention to the folds of the clothing and the highlights on the armor.
Add the flags and other decorative elements, using bolder brushstrokes and brighter colors.
Refine the overall composition, adjusting the values and colors as needed.
Add final details and highlights to create depth and interest.
Glaze with a thin layer of medium to unify the colors and add a subtle sheen.
color palette
primary · burnt sienna · raw umber · ivory black
secondary · cadmium red · yellow ochre · titanium white
Mix burnt sienna and raw umber for the background and shadows. Use cadmium red and yellow ochre for the flags and clothing. Add titanium white to lighten colors and create highlights.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · stretched canvas
required
optional
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to speed up the painting process.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
in this vein

Dolly Sisters
Kees van Dongen

Nude with Loaves
Jean Helion

My Father
Carlos Botelho

Helen
Chronis Botsoglou

The portrait painter in the country
Albin Egger-Lienz

Marketta on Lázeňská street, Prague
Maria Bozoky

Winter at the Entrepotdok, in Amsterdam city
Paul Werner

Old Woman with Masks (Theatre of Masks)
James Ensor